Re: r-11 overdrive questions

Posted by Packard Don On 2023/1/21 20:43:00

Installing overdrive does require the lockout cable, kick-down switch and relay and there are various brackets and clamps needed to hold things in place along with the wiring to connect it all. When I was in my early 20s, I installed overdrive (R9) into my 1940 110 and it wasn't all that difficult but there are lots of small things you'll need in order to do it.

You'll also need to shorten the driveshaft or get one from an overdrive Packard of the same wheelbase. I'm not sure if the u-joint flanges are the same or not between R9 and R11 so that's also something to watch for.

For the speedometer, it connects just as it does on the non-overdrive cars but probably requires a longer cable. The speedometer drive gear ratio is dependent on which rear end ratio you have and cars with overdrive had a different rear end than those without so that's another thing to consider.

Incidentally, if your car is stock other than using a different overdrive unit, it really doesn't need to be in the Modification section! That's for cars that have been customized, such as having modern drive-lines or body modifications.